Answer» - Primary/Main Memory: The computer memory that is directly accessible by the CPU is referred to as primary memory. It is made up of DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and provides the processor with an actual working area. It keeps track of the data and instructions that the processor is CURRENTLY processing. EXAMPLE - RAM (Random Access Memory)
- Secondary Memory: Because the processor does not directly interface with the secondary memory, the contents of the secondary memory are first transferred to the primary memory and then ACCESSED by the processor. Example - Hard disk, USB drive, etc.
The following table illustrates the differences between primary memory and secondary memory: | Primary Memory | Secondary Memory |
|---|
| Storage in primary memory is temporary. | Storage in secondary memory is permanent. | | Processor/CPU has immediate access to primary memory. | Processor/CPU does not have immediate access to primary memory. | | It may be volatile (requires power to MAINTAIN the STORED information) or non-volatile in nature. | It is always non-volatile (does not require power to maintain the stored information) in nature. | | Semiconductor memories are the memory devices utilised for primary memory. | Magnetic and optical memories are used as secondary memory devices. | | Primary memory is more expensive than secondary memory. | When compared to primary memory devices, secondary memory devices are less expensive. |
|
